Shipping A Car To Honduras: Complete 2025 Import Guide

Importing a vehicle to Honduras requires navigating a comprehensive regulatory framework that includes age restrictions, documentation requirements, and tax calculations. With Honduras's established 10-year age limit for most vehicles and participation in CAFTA-DR trade agreements, understanding the complete import process ensures successful vehicle shipping while managing costs and compliance requirements effectively. Current regulations require verification with customs authorities as import rules can change.

At West Coast Shipping, our specialized expertise in international car shipping ensures your Honduras vehicle imports meet all regulatory requirements while providing comprehensive guidance through customs clearance, documentation preparation, and cost optimization for successful delivery to Puerto Cortés.

Step-by-Step Guide to Importing a Car to Honduras

Pre-Import Planning and Vehicle Selection

Successful car importing to Honduras begins with careful vehicle selection and planning to ensure compliance with age restrictions, documentation requirements, and cost considerations.

Initial Planning Steps:

• Vehicle Age Verification: Confirm your vehicle meets Honduras's standard 10-year age limit (though some sources report 7-year limits, requiring verification with current customs authorities)

• Left-Hand Drive Requirement: Ensure your vehicle is left-hand drive, as right-hand drive vehicles are completely prohibited in Honduras

• Cost Analysis: Calculate total import costs including purchase price, shipping, duties, taxes, and registration fees

• Documentation Preparation: Begin gathering required documents well in advance of shipping to avoid delays

Vehicle Eligibility Assessment:
Honduras maintains specific restrictions on imported vehicles that must be verified before proceeding with the import process. Age restrictions are consistently reported but may vary, requiring current verification with customs authorities.

Want a full breakdown of the process? Check out our step-by-step guide to importing a car to Honduras for everything from pre-shipping prep to final registration.

Choosing Your Shipping Method and Route

Selecting the appropriate shipping method affects both cost and timeline for your Honduras vehicle import.

Primary Shipping Options:

• Container Shipping: Provides maximum protection for valuable vehicles, typically takes 2-4 weeks transit time to Puerto Cortés

• RoRo Shipping: Primarily for oversized vehicles and heavy machinery that exceed container dimensions

• Consolidation Services: Shared container shipping for cost savings on smaller vehicles

Main Port Destination:

• Puerto Cortés: Primary commercial port with comprehensive customs facilities and vehicle processing capabilities

US Export Documentation Process

Completing proper US export documentation ensures smooth departure and compliance with both US and Honduran requirements.

US Export Requirements:

• Vehicle Title: Clear title with no liens or properly documented lien release

• Export Declaration: Completed export documentation filed with US Customs

• Power of Attorney: Authorization for shipping company to handle export procedures

• Marine Cargo Coverage: Proof of protection during transit

Export Processing Steps:

• Submit vehicle to export facility 3-5 days before sailing

• Complete US customs export declaration

• Vehicle inspection and loading preparation

• Final loading onto vessel with proper securing

Honduras Customs Clearance Process

Understanding Honduras customs procedures ensures efficient clearance upon arrival at Puerto Cortés.

Customs Clearance Timeline:

• Port Arrival: Vessel arrives at Puerto Cortés

• Documentation Review: Customs reviews all import documents (timelines may vary widely based on documentation completeness and customs workload)

• Physical Inspection: Vehicle inspection for compliance and condition verification

• Duty and Tax Payment: Payment of calculated import duties, VAT, and fees

• Release Authorization: Vehicle cleared for pickup or delivery

Customs Inspection Process:
Honduras customs conducts thorough vehicle inspections to verify documentation accuracy, assess condition, and ensure compliance with import regulations. Processing times can vary significantly depending on documentation completeness and vehicle condition.

Vehicle Registration and Compliance

Completing Honduras vehicle registration ensures legal operation on Honduran roads.

Registration Requirements:

• Technical Inspection: Vehicle safety and emissions testing

• Mandatory Coverage: Required Honduran vehicle protection

• License Plates: Registration for Honduran license plates

• Driver Documentation: Valid Honduran driver's license or international permit

Compliance Modifications:
Some imported vehicles may require modifications to meet Honduran standards, including lighting adjustments, emissions compliance, or safety equipment installation.

Updated List of Documents Required for Car Shipping to Honduras in 2025

Primary Import Documentation

Honduras requires comprehensive documentation for vehicle imports with specific formatting and authentication requirements.

Essential Import Documents:

• Original Vehicle Title: Must be clear of liens with proper signatures and notarization

• Commercial Invoice: Detailed invoice showing vehicle specifications, purchase price, and seller information

• Bill of Lading: Original ocean bill of lading from shipping company

• Certificate of Origin: CAFTA-DR certificate for US-manufactured vehicles to qualify for preferential treatment (more commonly required for business imports)

• Purchase Agreement: Detailed sales contract or auction documentation

• Export Certificate: US export clearance documentation

Want to learn more about the paperwork? Check out our updated list of required documents for car shipping to Honduras in 2025 to make sure you’re fully prepared.

Honduras-Specific Requirements

Additional documentation specific to Honduras customs requirements ensures smooth import processing.

Honduras Customs Documents:

• RTN (Registro Tributario Nacional): Honduran tax identification number for the importer

• Import Documentation: Filed with Honduras customs authorities (specific permit requirements may vary)

• Vehicle Compliance Documentation: Certification for vehicle compliance (requirements may vary by case)

• Phytosanitary Certificate: If required for vehicle condition or contamination concerns

• Power of Attorney: Authorization for customs broker to handle clearance procedures

Personal Identification and Legal Documents

Proper identification and legal documentation establishes import authority for Honduras customs processing.

Required Personal Documentation:

• Valid Passport: Current passport with minimum 6-month validity

• Honduran Residency Documentation: Proof of legal residence status in Honduras

• Import Authorization: For commercial importers or dealers

• Financial Documentation: Proof of financial capacity for import duties and taxes

Special Circumstances Documentation

Additional documents may be required based on specific import circumstances or vehicle characteristics.

Conditional Documentation:

• Diplomatic Exemption: For qualifying diplomatic personnel

• Classic Car Certification: For vehicles claiming antique or collectible status (special permits required)

• Modification Documentation: Engineering reports for modified vehicles

• Coverage Certificates: Marine cargo and destination country protection proof

• Environmental Compliance: Emissions testing reports for newer vehicles

Document Authentication and Preparation

Proper document preparation prevents delays and rejection during Honduras customs processing.

Authentication Requirements:

• Apostille Certification: Some documents may require apostille authentication

• Consular Legalization: Honduran consulate verification for specific documents

• Certified Translations: Spanish translations for non-Spanish documents

• Multiple Copies: Customs typically requires original plus multiple certified copies

Document Timing:
Begin document preparation 30-45 days before shipping to ensure all authentication and translation requirements are completed. Missing or improperly prepared documents can result in significant delays and additional costs.

Honduras Vehicle Import Restrictions Explained

Age Restrictions - Current Requirements

Honduras maintains age-based import restrictions that require verification with customs authorities for current enforcement.

Reported Age Restrictions:

• Passenger Vehicles: Generally limited to 10 years old or newer from year of manufacture (some sources report 7-year limits)

• Commercial Vehicles: May have different age limits based on vehicle type and intended use

• Passenger Buses: Restrictions reported for buses over 13 years old

Age Calculation Method:
Vehicle age is calculated from the year of manufacture, not the model year. This distinction is important for vehicles manufactured late in a calendar year but sold as the following model year.

Important Note: Age restrictions require verification with current Honduras customs authorities as enforcement and specific limits may vary.

Curious about what vehicles are actually allowed in? Check out our detailed guide on Honduras vehicle import restrictions to avoid costly mistakes and ensure compliance.

Vehicle Type and Configuration Restrictions

Specific vehicle types and configurations face import restrictions based on safety and regulatory compliance.

Prohibited Vehicle Types:

• Right-Hand Drive Vehicles: Completely prohibited regardless of age or value

• Refurbished or Rebuilt Vehicles: Not permitted for import under current regulations

• Salvage Title Vehicles: Generally prohibited unless meeting specific repair and certification requirements

• Vehicles with Extensive Modifications: Non-standard modifications may be rejected during inspection

Acceptable Vehicle Categories:

• Standard Passenger Cars: Sedans, hatchbacks, and wagons meeting age requirements

• SUVs and Trucks: Light trucks and sport utility vehicles within age limits

• Commercial Vehicles: With proper commercial import documentation

• Classic and Collectible Cars: May qualify for exemptions with special permits and additional requirements

Technical and Safety Standards

Imported vehicles must meet Honduras technical standards for safety, emissions, and equipment requirements.

Safety Equipment Requirements:

• Airbag Systems: Functional airbags required for vehicles originally equipped

• Seatbelt Systems: Complete and functional safety restraint systems

• Lighting Compliance: Proper headlight, taillight, and signal light operation

• Emissions Control: Functional emissions control systems for environmental compliance

Environmental Standards:
Honduras enforces emissions standards that may require emissions testing for imported vehicles. Newer vehicles generally meet these requirements, while older vehicles may need testing or modifications.

Documentation and Compliance Restrictions

Specific documentation and compliance requirements can restrict vehicle import eligibility even for otherwise qualifying vehicles.

Title and Ownership Restrictions:

• Clear Title Required: Vehicles with liens, disputes, or unclear ownership cannot be imported

• Branded Titles: Flood, fire, or other branded titles may face additional scrutiny or rejection

• Commercial vs. Personal Use: Different documentation requirements based on intended use

Regional and Trade Agreement Considerations:

• CAFTA-DR Benefits: US-manufactured vehicles may qualify for reduced duties

• Country of Origin Documentation: Proper origin certification affects duty rates

• Free Trade Zone Implications: Vehicles from certain free trade zones may have different requirements

How to Calculate Duties and Taxes When Importing a Car to Honduras

Understanding Honduras Tax Structure - Corrected Information

Honduras applies a multi-layered tax structure to imported vehicles including import duties, value-added tax, and selective consumption taxes, though rates vary between sources.

Primary Tax Components:

• Import Duty: Rates vary significantly - sources report ranges from 5-20% based on vehicle type and CIF value

• Value Added Tax (VAT): 15% applied to CIF value plus import duty

• Selective Consumption Tax: 1% on CIF value for most vehicles

• Additional Taxes: Some sources mention environmental taxes based on engine size and emissions characteristics

Tax Calculation Base:
All import taxes are calculated on the CIF (Cost, Freight) value, which includes the vehicle purchase price, shipping costs ($3,150 from New York to Puerto Cortés in 14 days), and coverage during transit.

Want to learn more about taxes and fees? Check out our expert tips for calculating duties and import taxes when shipping a car to Honduras — including CIF valuation methods, duty rates, and VAT breakdowns.

CAFTA-DR Trade Agreement Benefits

US-manufactured vehicles may qualify for preferential treatment under the CAFTA-DR trade agreement between the United States and Central American countries.

CAFTA-DR Advantages:

• Reduced Import Duties: Potential elimination or reduction of standard import duties

• Rules of Origin: Vehicles must meet specific US content requirements to qualify

• Certificate of Origin: Proper CAFTA-DR certification required for preferential treatment

• Gradual Implementation: Some tariff reductions implemented over multiple years

Qualifying for CAFTA-DR Benefits:
To receive preferential treatment, vehicles must be manufactured in the United States with sufficient US-made components to meet rules of origin requirements. Proper documentation through CAFTA-DR certificates of origin is essential.

Sample Tax Calculations 

Understanding tax calculations through practical examples helps estimate total import costs for budget planning.

Example 1: 2020 Honda Accord (US-Made, CAFTA-DR Eligible)

• Vehicle Purchase Price: $22,000

• Shipping Cost: $3,150 (New York to Puerto Cortés, 14 days)

• Marine Coverage: $400

• CIF Value: $25,550

• Import Duty (CAFTA-DR Reduced - 5%): $1,278

• VAT (15%): ($25,550 + $1,278) × 15% = $4,024

• Selective Consumption Tax (1%): $256

• Total Taxes: $5,558 (21.8% of CIF value)

Example 2: 2019 BMW 3 Series (Non-CAFTA-DR)

• Vehicle Purchase Price: $28,000

• Shipping Cost: $3,150 (New York to Puerto Cortés, 14 days)

• Marine Coverage: $500

• CIF Value: $31,650

• Import Duty (15% - mid-range estimate): $4,748

• VAT (15%): ($31,650 + $4,748) × 15% = $5,460

• Selective Consumption Tax (1%): $364

• Total Taxes: $10,572 (33.4% of CIF value)

Additional Fees and Charges

Beyond standard import taxes, additional fees affect total import costs and should be included in budget calculations.

Port and Processing Fees:

• Port Handling Charges: $200-500 depending on vehicle size

• Customs Broker Fees: $300-800 for professional customs clearance services

• Storage Fees: $25-50 per day if vehicle clearance is delayed

• Inspection Fees: $50-150 for required customs and technical inspections

Registration and Compliance Costs:

• Vehicle Registration: $100-300 for Honduran license plates and registration

• Technical Inspection: $75-200 for safety and emissions testing

• Protection Requirements: Mandatory Honduran vehicle coverage varies by type

• Modification Costs: $200-1,000 if vehicle modifications are required for compliance

Cost Optimization Strategies

Strategic planning can minimize import costs and maximize value from Honduras vehicle imports.

CAFTA-DR Optimization:

• Source Selection: Prioritize US-manufactured vehicles for duty benefits

• Documentation: Ensure proper CAFTA-DR certificate of origin preparation

• Verification: Confirm current duty phase-out schedules and requirements

Value Management:

• Accurate Valuation: Proper vehicle valuation affects all tax calculations

• Shipping Method: Container shipping provides optimal protection for standard vehicles

• Timing Coordination: Coordinate arrival and clearance to minimize storage fees

Professional Services:

• Customs Broker Selection: Experienced brokers can navigate complex requirements efficiently

• Documentation Preparation: Professional preparation prevents delays and additional costs

• Current Information: Work with professionals familiar with current rates and requirements

Calculate Your Honduras Import Costs

 Our experienced team provides comprehensive support from initial planning through final delivery, ensuring compliance with all Honduras requirements while optimizing your import investment through Puerto Cortés with accurate cost projections based on current shipping rates of $3,150 from New York in 14 days transit time.